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Diamond Head Neighborhood Board Meeting May 2018 Minutes
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DRAFT - REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
THURSDAY, MAY 10, 2018
ALA WAI CLUB HOUSE
CALL TO ORDER: Chair George West called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. A quorum was established with 15 members present. (Note - This 15-member Board requires eight (8) members to establish quorum and to take official Board action).
Members Present: Julia Allen, Judith Bowman, Ajay Bhatt, Leonora Cuban, Richard Figliuzzi, Mark Kamahele, Michelle Matson, Barbara Miller, Bert Narita, Don Persons, Laura St. Denis, Winston Welch, Jerry Wanager, George West, and Linda Wong.
Member Absent: None.
Guests: Adjudant General of Hawaii Arthur J. Logan (Governor's Representative); State House Speaker Emeritus Calvin Say; State Representative Bertrand Kobayashi; Walea Constantinau (Mayor Kirk Caldwell's Representative); Captain Akiota (Honolulu Fire Department); Sergeant Sanford Yue (Honolulu Police Department); Ann Wong and Joe Cooper (Board of Water Supply); Justine Espiritu (Bikeshare Hawaii); Kenneth Chang (Waialae-Kahala Neighborhood Board No.3); Carol Hoshiko (Kapiolani Community College); Carolyn Tanaka, Franklin Chung (Residents); and Thomas Baldwin (Neighborhood Assistant).
Announcements: Chair West commented that anyone wishing to speak on items not already on the agenda should fill out a Community Concern form at the front table and turn it into the Chair or Neighborhood Assistant.
PUBLIC SAFETY REPORTS
Honolulu Fire Department (HFD - Waikiki Station): Captain Akiota reported the following.
• April 2018 Statistics: There were 1 structure fire, 13 activated alarms, 143 medical emergencies, 1 motor vehicle collisions with a pedestrian.
• Safety Tip: Escape Planning: The HFD advises the following fire pre-planning tips:
o Home Escape Plan: Make a home escape plan.
o Escape Routes: Plan at least two ways out of every room.
o Outside Meeting: Designate an outside meeting place in order to account for all family members.
o Fire Drill: Practice your home fire drill during the day and at night with your family. The drill should be practiced twice a year using different escape plans.
o Children: Teach your children how to escape on their own, in case you cannot help them.
o Close Doors: Close doors behind you to help contain the fire as you leave.
o Never go back inside: If an alarm sounds, get out of the house and stay out. Never go back inside for people or pets.
o Smoke: If you have to go through smoke, stay low and go under the smoke.
o 9-1-1: Call 9-1-1 from outside your home.
Honolulu Police Department (HPD) - District 6 Waikiki/ Diamond Head): No representative was present; no report was given.
Honolulu Police Department (HPD - District 7 Kapahulu/St. Louis Heights): Sergeant Sanford Yue reported the following:
• April 2018 Statistics: There were 6 motor vehicle thefts, 29 burglaries, 28 thefts, 30 UEMV, and 6626 total calls for service.
• Safety Tips: Disaster Preparedness: In response to recent disasters across the State, Sergeant Yue provided reading materials for the Board and guests.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed:
1. Parks: Wong requested statistics on park closures from District 7's report. Sergeant Yue encouraged Wong to discuss the issue with the Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO), as they request the kinds of information HPD share at Board meetings.
2. Sweeps: Wong asked why sweeps could be conducted at Diamond Head but not at Crane Park. Sergeant Yue responded that the City responds to requests for sweeps from HPD. Wong expressed her concerns that the City moves the property onto the sidewalk, adding that the homeless will later move the property back to park lands. Wong asked and Sergeant Yue clarified that she would need to coordinate with the Department of Facility Maintenance (DFM).
3. Crosswalks: St. Denis commented that she noticed several places where crosswalks have been painted out. She asked if it means that it is illegal to cross at these locations. Sergeant Yue clarified that it would be illegal to cross at these locations, commenting that pedestrians must cross at marked crosswalks. St. Denis asked and Sergeant Yue clarified that DFM or the Department of Transportation Services (DTS) handle crosswalks. Welch asked and Sergeant Yue responded that there are "unmarked crosswalks" based on the distance between the legally marked crosswalks where a pedestrian can cross. He added that he would investigate and report back.
Governor David Ige's Representative: Major General Arthur Logan distributed a newsletter and reported the following:
• Climate Change: Major General encouraged residents to familiarize themselves with a new report from the Climate Change Commission discussing the future of the State in regards to the impacts of climate change.
• Emergency Response: Major General Logan discussed the response by the Hawaii Army National Guard to the flooding on Kauai and the volcanic activity on Hawai'i Island, adding that the Governor signed a disaster declaration for Kauai and Hawai'i Island. He added that the White House has approved disaster declaration for Kauai, and the State is seeking a similar declaration for Hawai'i Island. Regarding the volcanic activity on Hawai'i Island, Major General Logan commented that the activity may take months to years to resolve.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed:
1. FEMA Assistance: Persons asked and Major General Logan responded that FEMA turned down individual assistance, but not public assistance. Major General Logan clarified that individual assistance is for homeowners, and assistance is based on the number of homes affected in a disaster and aggregate socio-economic loss. He added that the State is appealing that decision. Persons asked and Major General Logan clarified that 175 homes (were/are required to be) affected.
2. Deployment: Vice Chair Narita commented on the various citizen soldiers serving the country abroad. General Logan responded that they will be deploying a helicopter unit, medevac unit, F-22s, and a brigade deploying to various locations abroad.
3. Contact: Wong requested General Logan's contact info when he is absent.
4. Highways: Wong expressed her concerns that work on the freeway and Nimitz Highway at the same time slowed the flow of traffic. Major General Logan responded that while the work can negatively affect traffic in the short term, the work will improve overall traffic flow into the future.
5. False Alert: Welch asked and Major General Logan responded that the Congressional Delegation is working on a bill to turn over the Missile Alert System to the Department of Defense (DOD). He added that the DOD already takes care of the detection, commenting that it is up to Civil Defense to get the message to citizens as soon as possible. He concluded that the false missile alert was an anomaly that will not happen again. He commented that prospective negotiations with North Korea may settle the discussion around nuclear weapons and missile threats. St. Denis expressed her concerns with the inconsistencies with the alerts. Major General Logan responded that residents should believe and hear the alerts and sirens, clarifying that the three (3) things they will see in a real emergency will be the sirens, the mobile message, and the alert message over the television and radio.
6. Diamond Head Crater Site Visit: Matson discussed a Diamond Head Crater site visit for the monument plan to get a sense of what would be best for security. She commented that there a large facility may soon be available that could accommodate expanded operations. She added that there is some opportunity with the facility. Major General Logan responded that they will talk online.
7. Top Golf: Resident Franklin Chung commented that there has been discussion from the Department of Enterprise Services (DES) surrounding lease and concession revenue being put back into the golf course through Capital Improvement Projects (CIP). Resident Chung asked and Major General Logan responded that he would find more information and report back. Matson commented that there is State Statute that specifies that the property is for golf use only. She expressed her concerns with the appearance of a proposed entertainment center.
Mayor Kirk Caldwell's Representative: No representative was available; a newsletter was distributed.
Board of Water Supply (BWS): Ann Wong of the BWS reported the following:
• April 2018 Main Breaks: There were two (2) main breaks on Tuesday, April 3, 2018 on 1504 St. Louis Drive involving a 12 inch main, and one (1) on Thursday, April 5, 2018 on Dole Street involving a 20 inch water main.
• General Water Announcement: Water Master Plan/ Rates Presentation: Over the last several months, BWS has told customers about: The BWS Long-term Financial Plan, Capital Improvement Program Scenarios, the Water Rate Study, and Subsidies for certain types of customers like Agriculture, Recycled Water, and Non-residential customers. This month, BWS is holding public hearings, regarding proposed water rates, which are posted on the BWS website: https://www.boardofwatersupply.com/waterrates. Our first public hearing was on Thursday, April 26, 2018. BWS encourages customers to attend any of the remaining public hearings, which all start at 6:30p.m.:
o West Side/Kapolei: Monday, May 14, 2018, Kapolei Hale: Ground Floor Conference Room. 1000 Uluohia Street.
o Windward/Kaneohe: Tuesday, May 15, 2018, Benjamin Parker Elementary School Cafeteria: 45-259 Waikalua Road.
o Central/Mililani: Thursday, May 24, 2018, Mililani Recreation Center #5: 95-1101 Ainamakua Drive.
• Any additional meetings will be announced on the website: www.boardofwatersupply.com and via the media. If unable to attend any of the public hearings, but have questions, or want to make comments, please write to 630 South Beretania Street, Honolulu, HI, 96843, email contactus@hbws.org, or call the BWS at 748-5041. The BWS wants to hear from customers, regarding the proposed water rates. The proposed rates can be viewed at https://www.boardofwatersupply.com/waterrates.
• Senate Bill (SB) 2930: In response to Linda Wong's request regarding SB2930 relating to underground storage tanks at the Red Hill facility, Ann Wong reported that the bill did not pass the 2018 legislative session. She added that the BWS supported the bill.
• Contact Information: Ann Wong provided contact information to Carol Hoshiko of Kapiolani Community College (KCC).
??? Homeless Sweep: Ann Wong reported that a homeless sweep was conducted by the State and the City.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed:
• Satellite Waste Water Treatment Plant: Resident Chung requested an updated on the Satellite Waste Water Treatment Plant at the Ala Wai Golf Course. Ann Wong responded that she would gather information from the consultant of the project.
• Underground Storage Tanks: Linda Wong asked and Ann Wong responded that a meeting involving underground fuel storage tanks from the Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday, May 30, 2018. Ann Wong commented that she will report back regarding details.
BWS Water Rates Presentation: Joe Cooper of BWS gave a presentation and reported the following:
??? Cooper expressed the importance of maintaining the water infrastructure. He commented that the Water Master Plan was a study undertaken to assess the needs of the water system over the next 30 years. The project took close to four (4) years to complete, with a supplemental infrastructure and finance plan developed in tandem. The BWS planned over 800 projects over the next 30 years at an estimated five (5) billion dollars.
• Main Breaks: Cooper commented that one (1) of the goals of the Water Master Plan is to reduce main breaks. The water infrastructure has experienced 250 to 350 main breaks every year over the last five (5) to 10 years. He commented that at the current replacement rate of five (5) to seven (7) miles of pipeline a year, the BWS expects up to 500 main breaks a year in the future. He commented that the BWS plans to increase the rate of pipeline replacement to 21 miles of pipeline a year to reduce the number of main breaks to sufficient levels.
??? Rates: Cooper commented that the BWS sought to be fair and equitable when planning the rate changes to encourage conservation as well as provide an "essential needs tier" for residential units. The essential needs tier will be a special discounted rate for residents for the first 2000 gallons of water used per month to encourage conservation.
• Tiered Structure: Cooper outlined the tier structure. Currently, the base charge is about $9.26 per month for all residents. He commented that the base charge will soon be based on meter size, clarifying that most residents have a 3/4 inch meter, affording them the smallest base charge. This rate will start at $9.26 to $12.00 over the next five (5) years. Customers with larger meters will pay a large rate proportionate to their bill.
• Single Family Residential: The proposed tiers for single family residential customers are 1) less than 2,000 gallons of water 2) up to 6,000 gallons of water 3) up to 30,000 gallons of water, and 4) over 30,000 gallons of water.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed:
1. Tiers: Matson asked and Cooper clarified the residential tier structure changes. The current tiers are as follows: 0 to 13,000 gallons - $4.42; 13,000 to 30,000 gallons - $5.33; over 30,000 - $7.94. The proposed changes create an essential needs tier up to 2,000 gallons.
2. Condominium/ Residential: Linda Wong asked and Cooper clarified that condominiums will be charged under the multi-family residential rates.
7:15 p.m. Kamahele left with 14 members present
BOARD DISCUSSION/ ACTION
Aircraft Noise Resolution: Chair West commented that two (2) resolutions were proposed by Board members and encouraged the Board to take action on one (1) of them. The proposed resolutions were designated as Resolution 1 and Resolution 2. Discussion followed:
• Resolution Drafting: Wong expressed her concerns with the redundant drafting of two (2) resolutions. She expressed her preference for the draft proposed by the member who volunteered to draft the resolution (Resolution 1).
• Resolution 1: Wong summarized Resolution 1, commenting that it was based on the resolution adopted the Waialae-Kahala Neighborhood Board No.3.
• Issues of Jurisdiction: Matson commented that she spoke with members of the Waialae-Kahala Neighborhood Board No. 3 who requested further information following their Aircraft Noise Presentation in April 2018. Matson commented that Resolution 1 takes the original resolution adopted by the Waialae-Kahala Board and changes names to the Diamond Head/Kapahulu/St. Louis Heights Neighborhood Board No. 5 where needed, with an additional clause identifying the human need for sleep. She commented that there are protocols and practices with the federal government in controlling airline flights. She commented that the FAA has sole jurisdiction on flight paths and heights. She added that the State Legislature has no power over those regulations. She commented that their neighborhood to meet with the FAA and the State Department of Transportation (HDOT) to reroute the flights off-shore. She concluded that the bodies designated to receive copies of Resolution 1 in its language, the City Council and the State Legislature, have no jurisdiction. Chair West asked if Matson was speaking in support of Resolution 2 and Matson responded that she was. She commented that Resolution 1 will have no effect.
• Drafting of Resolution 1: St. Denis commented that she received copies of the Waialae-Kahala Neighborhood Board No. 3 resolution to assist with the draft for Resolution 1. She commented that the information Matson had shared with their Board members regarding the FAA was good information, but not current due to new federal aviation laws. She commented that Resolution 1 uses some of what the Waialae-Kahala Neighborhood Board No. 3, adding in concerns from the Diamond Head and Kapahulu neighborhoods with overnight noise. She proposed Resolution 1 be adopted, as its information is more current. Miller expressed her concerns regarding a lack of professionalism during discussions, voicing her support of Resolution 1.
Matson moved to and Welch seconded to defer the adoption of a resolution until the next regular meeting.
Discussion Followed: Voting: Miller asked and Chair West clarified the necessary votes for the motion to be deferred.
The motion WAS NOT ADOPTED by ROLL CALL VOTE; 7-6-1 (AYE: Allen, Bowman, Cuban, Matson, Narita, Persons, and Welch NAY: Bhatt, Figliuzzi, Miller, St. Denis, Wanager, and Wong. ABSTAIN: West.)
Wong moved and Miller seconded to adopt Resolution 1 Requesting The Hawaii State Legislature, Federal Delegation And City And County Of Honolulu And Private Businesses To Remedy Excessive Noise Pollution Of Aircraft Above And Across Oahu. The motion WAS ADOPTED by ROLL CALL VOTE; 10-2-2 (AYE: Allen, Bhatt, Bowman, Cuban, Figliuzzi, Miller, Narita, St. Denis, Wanager, Wong. NAY: Matson, Persons. ABSTAIN: Welch, West.)
Hearing no objection, Chair West moved to Mayor Kirk's Caldwell's Representative.
CITY/STATE MONTHLY REPORTS
Mayor Kirk Caldwell's Representative: Walea Constantinau distributed a newsletter and requested questions from the Board.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed:
1. Board Correspondence: Wong requested that responses forwarded to the Chair in Constantinau's absence be provided to the entire Board. Constantinau responded that she will coordinate with the NCO on this issue.
2. Park Security Contract: Wong requested when the park security contract began and would end, adding that she believed it would end in June 2018.
3. Ala Wai Entrance: Resident Lindsey expressed her concerns that the Ala Wai entrance is still fenced out. Resident Lindsey asked when the fence would be removed, noting the negative aesthetic impact on the community and the homeless that are unimpeded by the fence. Matson expressed her concerns that the community may opt for a cumulative development to take the place of the fencing. (EMAIL)
Hearing no objection Chair West moved to Ala Wai Golf Course Update.
BOARD DISCUSSION/ ACTION
Ala Wai Golf Course Update - Driving Range Request for Proposal and Beach Volleyball Complex: Matson expressed her concerns with the Driving Range Proposal as well as the Beach Volleyball complex. Matson commented that the Ala Wai Golf Course is one (1) of the most popular golf courses in the world and is a mainstay of local seniors. She commented that for projects to come in, including the volleyball complex previously denied at Kakaako-Makai, they need to go through the State Department of Natural Resources (DLNR) for land use change. Matson distributed a resolution to the Board opposing the cumulative redevelopment of Ala Wai Golf Course. Matson expressed her concerns that the Board needs to be more informed on local issues. Wong commented that she was in support of the resolution. Consensus was found among the Board members to defer the item to give Board members more time to discuss the issue.
Hearing no objections, Chair West deferred the item to the Thursday, June 14, 2018 Regular Meeting.
Proposed Expansion of Biki Stations: No Biki representative was present. Discussion followed: Opposition to Expansion: Matson commented that the Board has thoroughly discussed the issue over the previous meetings. She added that the Kapiolani Park Trust provisions are in conflict with the proposed 10 bike stations at the park. She commented that the Administrators of the Division of State Parks have expressed their opposition to bike stations at Diamond Head Monument. She commented that KCC had allowed only one (1) bike station in their parking lot area, and none allowed on Diamond Head Road. Matson expressed her concerns with the aggressive and arbitrary decisions from Bikeshare into protected areas.
Matson moved and Welch seconded for the Diamond Head/Kapahulu/ St. Louis Heights Neighborhood Board No. 5 to oppose the proposed expansion of bicycle docking stations stations within and around Kapiolani Park Trust Lands and within and around the Diamond Head Monument. The motion WAS ADOPTED by ROLL CALL VOTE; 12-2-0 (AYE: Allen, Figliuzzi, Cuban, Matson, Miller, Narita, Persons, St. Denis, Wanager, Welch, Wong, and West. NAY: Bhatt, Bowman, ABSTAIN: None.)
Cromwell's Beach at Diamond Head: BLNR Decision: Matson reported that the BLNR voted to deny the demolition of the historic sea wall at Cromwell's Beach. Wong reported that the Doris Duke Estate plans to appeal the decision by the BLNR. Dr. Fred Fong summarized the proposal by the Doris Duke Estate to dismantle the sea wall, including the contradictions within their findings and significant lack of relevant information within their proposal, as Dr. Fong presented in detail at the Thursday, April 12, 2018 meeting of the Diamond Head/Kapahulu/ St. Louis Heights Neighborhood Board No. 5. Dr. Fong commented that the BLNR voted on Friday, April 27, 2018 to oppose the dismantling of the break water.
Matson moved and St. Denis seconded for the Diamond Head/ Kapahulu/ St. Louis Heights formally commend through writing the Board of Land and Natural Resources for their diligence in protected historic resources and considering better alternatives in their decision to oppose the dismantling of the break water at Cromwell's Beach. The motion WAS ADOPTED by HAND VOTE; 11-0-3 (AYE: Bowman, Figliuzzi, Cuban, Matson, Miller, Narita, Persons, St. Denis, Wanager, Wong, and West. NAY: ABSTAIN: Allen, Bhatt, Welch)
ELECTED OFFICIALS
Councilmember Anne Kobayashi: Councilmember Kobayashi distributed a newsletter and reported the following:
• Monster Homes: Councilmember Kobayashi discussed monster homes in the community without permits and stop work orders issued against. She commented that there is a bill with the council to have the department tear down houses that have a building permit, especially in cases where stop work orders have been issued. During the hearing, it was determined that DPP could tear down a house if there is no permit and stop work orders have been issued. Councilmember Kobayashi commented that they're trying to see what will happen, commenting that it sends a good message to those who wish to construct without permits. Chair West asked and Councilmember Kobayashi clarified that there is no law that keeps DPP from tearing down homes without permits. Councilmember Kobayashi expressed her belief that if a stop work order is issued on a home, and the property owner keeps building without a permit, the City and County should have the authority to stop the work. Chair West asked and Councilmember Kobayashi responded that the owner of a home on Date Street has been issued violations, adding that the owner may believe that the profit from renting out portions of the home will allow them to pay off the violation fines. She expressed her concerns that the current process without enforcement sends a message to other property owners that they may violate permitting rules without punishment.
• Budget: Councilmember Kobayashi commented that $5.7 million was inserted into the budget for trash fees, for 5$ fee to pick up trash. She added that the Council is opposed and pulling that money out of the budget.
• Parks: Councilmember Kobayashi expressed her concerns with the condition of parks. She added that the focus of the administration is on excess improvements on some parks, while maintenance at other parks is not upheld.
• Sand Volleyball: Councilmember Kobayashi discussed the Sand Volley Ball Resolution. She commented that the resolution is intended to allow the administration to go to community groups and neighborhood boards for feedback. She added that hearings will be held.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed:
1. Sand Volleyball/ Top Golf: St. Denis asked and Councilmember Kobayashi responded that a sand volleyball court would be open to all members of the public. Welch expressed his concerns with the lack of transparency with the resolution, as well as Top Golf, commenting on the broader discussions regarding the lack of information to the public. Welch expressed his concerns with rushing to develop the park and community before the public has time to provide input, commenting that privatization of public lands must be scrutinized carefully. Councilmember Kobayashi responded that Top Golf and the Sand Volleyball Court are two (2) very different developments, the former being private and the other later public. She added that the Request for Proposal (RFP) has already been issued for Top Golf, while the resolution for sand volleyball simply asks the administration to look into the idea and promote public discussion. Councilmember Kobayashi added that she was informed that the Top Golf development will tailor the appearance of the development to the area and expects to see public hearings on the proposal.
2. Top Golf Impact: Matson expressed her concerns with the Top Golf development appearance and its potential negative impact on the traditional attendees of the golf course. Councilmember Kobayashi responded that they are awaiting a presentation by the developer. Matson replied that an EIS must be made. She clarified that the community is concerned about both the Sand Volleyball Court and the Top Golf development because they will both impact the community. She expressed her concerns with the loss of open spaces. Resident Barbara Armentrout expressed her concerns that the large development proximal to the zoo will have a negative impact on the animals. She added that the 20 to 40 year lease is too long, and may require a costly buy-back in the future. Resident Lindsey expressed her concerns with recent development trends taking away public spaces and crowding communities. She commented that the Council can deny the application if they so desired.
3. Development History: Resident Chung summarized a history of developments in the area. He commented that individuals associated with the current Top Golf proposal have a history of seeking similar developments in the State of Hawaii. He commented that the revenue from the development could give the golf course CIP for additional water hazards, flood mitigation, wet-land improvements. He expressed his concerns that it may encourage developers to create Waikiki style developments in the community. Resident Chung encouraged Councilmember Kobayashi to hold Top Golf accountable in regards to improvements to the golf course. Councilmember Kobayashi responded that they are looking forward to hearings.
4. Waikik-Diamond Head Relations: Resident Bob Finley, Chair of the Waikiki Neighborhood Board No. 9 and speaking as a private citizen, commented that the Waikiki Neighborhood Board No. 9 tends to support the positions of their neighboring communities regarding their own developments. He added that the Waikiki community does not wish to expand into neighboring areas. He encouraged Chair West to coordinate with the Waikiki Neighborhood Board No. 9, commenting that he feels members of the community would be opposed to the proposition due to the impacts of lights through their windows. He clarified that the Waikiki Neighborhood Board No. 9 has not yet taken a position on the issue, and that his comments represent his views as a private citizen.
5. Community Input/ Sand Volleyball Court: Wong expressed her concerns with the lack of communication between the Councilmember's Office and the Board regarding the Sand Volleyball Resolution. Councilmember Kobayashi responded that the Resolution is intended to start the discussion for the public. Wong asked and Councilmember Kobayashi responded that the Council did not defer the resolution because no plans are outlined. She clarified that the resolution is intended to start a discussion around sand volleyball courts for the public. Wong commented that the consensus among the Board and surrounding area is in opposition to sand volleyball courts and Councilmember Kobayashi responded that there are others in the community that requested them. Wong commented that HCDA denied the development in Kakaako. She expressed her concerns that new developments will exacerbate traffic issues on Kapahulu Avenue. Matson clarified that the reason the HCDA denied the same operators proposal for the volleyball complex because it would have consumed too much area of the shared public spaces and open green spaces. She proposed that the Diamond Head/Kapahulu/St. Louis Heights Neighborhood Board No. 5, the McCully/Mo'ili'ili Neighborhood Board No.8, and the Waikiki Neighborhood Board No. 9 coordinate a joint meeting to discuss the ramifications of the two (2) proposals at the Ala Wai Golf Course.
6. Budget: Matson commended the Budget Committee for deleting the allocation for the Ala Moana Regional Park Redevelopment as well as the redevelopment of Thomas Square. She encouraged Councilmember Kobayashi to oppose cumulative developments at Ala Wai Golf Course.
Councilmember Trevor Ozawa: No representative was present; a newsletter was distributed.
Senator Stanley Chang: No representative was present; a report was communicated to the Chair. Chair West commented that the report and was submitted for the record:
• Newsletter Comments - We are working very hard with to address the concerns about the rest of the district so we apologize for not mentioning things directly related to Diamond Head in this newsletter.
• Legislation - We do want to draw attention to the success of several bills, including the Ratepayer's Protection Act. This bill makes Hawaii the first in the nation to create guidelines for the Public Utilities commission that requires them to focus on addressing broader concerns when they justify a rate increase. The current business model for most utilities is to build large scale utility projects then justify raising rates based on those costs, and build more large projects to raise rates further. This would incentives them to focus on things like allowing roof top solar to build smaller scale utility projects that allow for decentralized grid.
• Community Projects - We worked hard to get the funding for various projects important to the community, including:
o Kalani High School - Kalani High School will get funding for the planning and design of a new track and field.
o Kaimuki Middle School - Design and construction of covered walkways between buildings at Kaimuki Middle School.
o Waikiki Elementary School - $815,000 for planning, design, and construction for electric upgrades, replacing curtains in cafeteria, and ground and site improvements.
o Culinary Institute of the Pacific - Funding for stage two (2) of the Culinary Institute of the Pacific at Kapiolani Community College.
o Gold Coast Seawall - $300,000 for planning, design, and construction of the walkway improvements for the gold coast. This year we did get funding to repair the top surface of the Gold Coast Seawall.
Senator Les Ihara: No representative was present; no report was given.
Representative Bertrand Kobayashi: Representative Kobayashi distributed a newsletter and reported the following:
• Flood Relief: Representative Kobayashi commented that 125 million dollars in flood relief was allocated for Kauai and East Oahu. He commented that the infusion will allow for immediate work, and can begin work on projects that might not be compensated by the federal government.
• Affordable Housing: Representative Kobayashi commented that 570 million dollars was allocated for low-cost housing and 200 million dollars was allocated for affordable rentals.
• Homeless: Representative Kobayashi commented that 50 million dollars to address homeless issues. In addition, 30 million dollars was allocated for Ohana Zones, formerly safe zones. In addition, there is 15 million dollars in the state budget for the existing services for homeless. He added that implementation will be more difficult. He commented that they hope to see results like in proto-ohana zones as seen in Waianae.
• Women's Caucus: Representative Kobayashi commented that the Women's Caucus passed seven (7) bills this session, ranging from addressing confidentiality to sexual harassment.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed:
1. Ohana Zones Implementation: Figliuzzi requested clarifications on the budget items for the homeless and an actionable plan. Representative Kobayashi responded that the appropriation is one (1) year appropriation only, some of it should have programs that will last for more than one (1) year. He commented that if they can build up a community, the hope is for it to continue into the future.
2. Diamond Head Sweeps: Wong asked and Representative Kobayashi responded that HDOT takes away stored items during sweeps, while trash is taken away by DLNR. Wong requested further information regarding
Representative Scott Nishimoto: No representative was present; a newsletter was distributed:
House Speaker Emiterus (HSE) Calvin Say: HSE Say distributed a newsletter and requested questions or comments from the Board.
• Legislation Summary: HSE Say summarized some of the successes of the Legislature, including bills related to abandoned vehicles, bans on pesticides and sunscreen that use specified chemicals, and Kupuna Caucus bills.
• St. Louis Heights Concerns: Residents complained that there are four (4) homeless individuals at the Waahila State Park. HSE Say commented that the park keeper is working with State Homeless Coordinator.
• Wahila State Park: HSE commented that he supported an appropriation of $800,000 in improving the state park at Waahila.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed: Convention of States: Matson asked and HSE Say responded that he does not believe the Convention of States legislation to be a Tea-Party bill. HSE clarified that his resolution originated through a group of individuals, and commented that the purpose would be to address the budget shortfalls of the United States. Matson asked and HSE Say that the resolution was never given a hearing in the Legislature.
PRESENTATION
Department of Transportation Services (DTS): No DTS representative was present; no report was provided. Wong asked and Chair West responded that he will contact DTS to schedule a presentation.
RESIDENT/COMMUNITY INTEREST
Pedestrian Safety/ Segways/ Bicycles: A resident described an incident of a Segway rider pressuring her to move off of the sidewalk. She added the same Segway was involved in a pedestrian accident a few moments later with another pedestrian. She expressed her concerns with the lack of regard for pedestrian safety and requested action be taken by the Board to address Segways, bikes, and skateboards on the sidewalks. She added that helmets and maps of legal bike routes be distributed to tourists for public safety. Wong confirmed the resident's concerns with Segways, describing similar incidents in the community of Segway users and bicyclists pressuring pedestrians to exit the sidewalks. Welch commented that HPD ought to clarify where bicyclists can ride, especially in Waikiki. Chair West commented that he will coordinate with HPD regarding the issue. Persons commented that two (2) areas that a bicyclist cannot ride include any sidewalks in Waikiki and any sidewalk in Downtown Honolulu. He added that outside of those areas, bicyclists riding on sidewalks must yield to pedestrians.
Homeless and Parks: Wong reported on a resident's email concerning Crane Park conditions, trash on walkways, and panhandling at the corner of Harding and Kapahulu Avenue. Wong asked and Chair West responded that Crane Park will be on the next agenda.
Board Procedures/ Agenda: Wong expressed her concerns that a resident left the previous meeting early, before her request could be heard. She commented that residents'/ community concerns ought to be towards the beginning of the agenda. Chair West commented that he will consider moving the item higher, adding that there are many competing interests for agenda slots.
Crosswalks: A resident expressed concerns with the lack of crosswalks at Monserat Avenue through to Diamond Head Road, highlighting the lack of safety measures. The resident requested sidewalks be installed. Chair West responded that they will bring visibility to the concern. He requested that Persons coordinate with the resident regarding specific locations to be addressed by the Board.
Pedestrian Safety/ Segways/ Bicycles (continued): Matson requested this item be on the next agenda, commenting that the City Council ought to introduce a bill to protect their pedestrians. Chair West responded that it will be on the agenda. A Resident expressed his concerns with the usurpation of the right-of-way for pedestrians on sidewalks. He urged action by the Neighborhood Board to bring attention to the issue, expressing his concerns with the lack of action by the HPD. Welch expressed his concerns with the lack of social awareness by many riders towards pedestrians.
Top Golf Complex/ Sand Volleyball Complex: Welch requested a presentation from representatives of the Top Golf proposal as well as from DPR for the Volleyball Complex to the Board.
Pedestrian Safety/ Segways/ Bicycles (continued): Matson asked and a resident responded that she was not sure about the details of the Segway pedestrian accident.
BOARD BUSINESS
Approval of Thursday, April 12, 2018, Regular Meeting Minutes
Clarifications: The Neighborhood Assistant clarified the two (2) proposed draft amendments received from Board members Matson and Wong. Wong requested that the two drafts be taken up separately.
Wong moved and St. Denis seconded to amend the Thursday, April 12, 2018 Regular Meeting Minutes to insert the following: on Page 5-4 "The Bulb Out at Rainbows Drive-in is in right lane of traffic so a car cannot turn right unless using the left lane of traffic. This clogs up the intersection as there is only one turn lane for right and left turns."; Page 8-6 "Proceeds: Wong asked where the Revenue goes? Espiritu said the revenue goes to the Bike Rental Co." and "Welch asks were the revenue goes after the Bike Rental Co. is paid off. Espiritu responded that the Contract with the City renegotiates after the Bike Rental Co. is paid off."; Page 12: "Dean Hoshiko stated that several of the Bikeshare site locations proposed tonight were not mention at KCC's recent meeting with Bikeshare."
Discussion followed: Corrections: Matson confirmed the corrections for Page 5. She commented that the amendments for Espiritu's statements for page 8 would not be correct, as Espiritu said in the meeting that the revenue goes towards equipment funding. Vice Chair Narita expressed his concerns with typographical errors on the Page 8 amendments. St. Denis confirmed the corrections to page 8.
The motion WAS NOT ADOPTED by ROLL CALL VOTE; 5-6-3 (AYE: Allen, Cuban, Wanager, St. Denis, Wong NAY: Bhatt, Matson, Miller, Narita, Persons, Welch ABSTAIN: Bowman, Figliuzzi, West)
Matson moved and Welch seconded to amend the Thursday, April 12, 2018 Regular Meeting Minutes. The minutes WERE ADOPTED AS AMENDED by ROLL CALL VOTE; 8-4-2 (AYE: Allen, Figliuzzi, Cuban, Matson, Narita, Persons, Wanager, Welch NAY: Bhatt, Miller, St. Denis, Wong ABSTAIN: Bowman, West) Amendments are as follows:
Councilmember Ozawa - p. 3
3. Volleyball Court Complex: Welch expressed his concerns with resolution 18-67 regarding the installation of a sand volleyball court complex at the Ala Wai Golf Course property . . .
Representative Kobayashi - p. 4
o Firearms Legislation: Last year the State of Hawaii became the first state in Hawaii to pass a law . . . Moped:
Representative Nishimoto - p. 4
2. Volley Ball Court Complex: Wong asked and Representative Nishimoto responded that he must go to the City to get a better understanding of ongoing developments, like the driving range and sand volleyball court complex, just as the public does. . . .
Date Street Striping - p. 5
3. Signalized Synchronized Traffic Signals: Wong asked and Redoble responded that he can pass on the request for synchronized traffic signals . .
Doris Duke Estate - p. 6-7
• Timeline: . . . Finding of No Significant Importance Impact (FEA-FONSI) on June 23, 2018 7.
3. State Historic Preservation/ DLNR: Dr. Fong responded that the FEA FES went through and was approved by the OCCL, under the DLNRÉ Matson commented that an FES FEA is not the same as a Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS)É They declared a FONSI when the assessment was done, which means they were not going to proceed with the FES EISÉ the applicant's response to concerns belongs within the FEA and FEISÉ there could should be a public meeting hearing, and that it would need to be posted on the Board of Land and Natural Resources (BLNR) agenda..
4. Liability: A resident asked if the property and the breakwallwater were are private property, and Dr. Fong replied that they were are. The resident asked and Dr. Fong responded who was that the property owner is liable in the case of someone hurting themselves following a jumpÉ.
Aircraft Noise Resolution - p. 7-8
• Board Support: Chang reported that they seek were present to request the Diamond Head/ Kapahulu/St. Louis Heights Neighborhood Board No. 5's support of a resolution to reduce noise pollution created by aircraft in the area.
1. History: . . .Neighborhood Board No. 5 previously addressed the issue for a decade, and She commented that commercial aircraft was supposed to fly off shore. Tthe Board had to discuss the issue with an FAA administrator. . . . to start a dialogue. She where it was concluded that commercial aircraft was supposed to fly offshore to mitigate the aircraft noise impacts on the community, and this would be the only means to accomplish this goal. She added that the aircraft noise impacts lowered were substantially diminished for several years following those discussions for a time...
2. Data Gathering: Matson Wong commented that they were also able to work with online flight tracking and call the air traffic controller tower when they dealt with the issue and also gathered decibel data.
4. Solution: . . . the priorities of commercial airlines are to save time and fuel, and they are influential with the FAA in taking short-cuts. . . the meetings with HDOT that brought together stakeholders from the affected aircraft services was were necessary to find a productive solution
BikeShare - p. 8-9
2. Diamond Head State Monument: . . .the map of proposed sites shows six (6) locations at near KCC, two (2) of which are in the Diamond Head State Monument . . . it was found that the members of the Division of State Parks administrators were unaware of and are opposed to the proposed Biki stations at the Diamond Head State Monument.
3. Kapiolani Park: Matson asked if Bikeshare if either the Kapiolani Park Board of Trustees or Bikeshare have petitioned the court for instructionsÉ Bikeshare is currently awaiting a response from the Board of Trustees . . . Bikeshare received related questions from the Attorney General, with Bikeshare's response due by Friday, April 20 . . .
13. Bike stations at Kapiolani Park: Carol Hopkins, representing the Kapiolani Park Preservation Society, expressed her concerns and opposition to the Bikeshare proposals to install Biki Stations at Kapiolani Park . . Kapiolani Park is a public charitable trust run overseen by the Board of Kapiolani Park Trustees.
Senator Les Ihara - p. 9
Ala Wai Boat Harbor: Matson expressed her concerns with the "gut and replace" tactic for removal of a law . . .
City Council Resolution 18-67 - p. 10
. . . a sand volleyball court complex is being proposed under City Council Resolution 18-67 for the Ala Wai Golf Course. . . . the Hawaii Community Development Authority (HCDA) denied them access in KakaÔako Makai for because of the impact they would have on the public park's shared recreational open space.
REPORTS
Treasurer's Report: Wanager reported a remained balance of $113.25 at the end of March 2018.
Subdistrict 1 (St. Louis Heights): Allen announced the St. Louis Heights Community Association meeting for Monday, May 14, 2018 at Hokulani Elementarty School.
Subdistrict 2 (Kapahulu): No report was provided.
Subdistrict 3 (Diamond Head): St. Denis reported that a community member expressed concerns with trash on the fence where Campbell Avenue ends at Diamond Head. Chair West reported that they would follow up on the issue.
Chair Report: Chair West requested that Board members comply with decorum in the interest of time for themselves, the community, and elected officials. Chair West commented that many leave meetings early due to their laborious nature, and urged cooperation in improving the efficiency and decorum of Board meetings. Chair West urged efficiency of discussions within meetings and requested that Board members eliminate private discussions during Board business. Chair West commented that many residents and elected officials do not attend the meetings due to the lack of decorum.
Next Regular Board Meeting: The next regular Board meeting will be at Ala Wai Club House on Thursday, June 14, 2018.
ADJOURNMENT: As there was no further business before the Board, Chair West adjourned the meeting at 8:59 p.m.
Submitted by: Thomas Baldwin, Neighborhood Assistant Reviewed by: Richard Figliuzzi, Secretary
Finalized by: George West, Chair
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